Determining Family Needs on an Oncology Hospital Unit Using Interview, Art, and Survey

Area of Science:

• Oncology Nursing
• Healthcare Management
• Patient and Family Experience

Background:

• The implementation of Patient- and Family-Centered Care (PFCC) is a growing global movement.
• Hospitals need to understand the specific needs of patients' families to effectively implement PFCC.
• Oncology units require tailored approaches to support families during a loved one's treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the unmet needs of family members of patients on a 28-bed oncology unit.
• To explore family members' requirements for physical comfort, emotional support, and caregiving assistance.
• To inform the development of supportive interventions for families in the hospital setting.

Main Methods:

• A triangulated study design was employed, combining qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Data collection involved open-ended interviews, the Draw a Bridge art therapy technique, and the Family Inventory of Needs (FIN) survey.
• Nineteen family members at the bedside participated in the study.

Main Results:

• Interviews highlighted needs for physical comfort, emotional support, cultural sensitivity, recognition of family contributions, and improved pain management.
• Art therapy revealed the stressors of caregiving and identified previously unrecognized needs.
• The FIN survey indicated significant family concerns regarding care at home after patient discharge.

Conclusions:

• Understanding family needs is crucial for effective Patient- and Family-Centered Care implementation.
• Addressing identified needs can enhance the caregiving experience for families of oncology patients.
• Proactive planning and provision of support modalities are essential for assisting families during hospitalization and post-discharge.